Wiegman is pleased with England's progress before the title defense at the Euros

 Coach Sarina Wiegman said she was happy with the improvement England showed in Friday's 5-0 Nations League rout of Belgium as she prepares to lead the side into their Euros title defence in three months' time.

 England ended 2024 on a shaky note, losing 4-3 to Germany in a friendly in October following a loss to France and a draw with Sweden in the Euro qualifiers.

 The Reuters Daily Briefing newsletter provides all the news you need to start your day.  Register here. England lost to Portugal in the Nations League in February by a score of 1-1, but they won back-to-back games against Spain and Belgium to rise to the top of their group. It's getting ready for the Euros. If you get the opportunity to see many players that are knocking on the door and different combinations, that's really nice," Wiegman told reporters on Friday.

 "I do believe that something is taking place and that we are getting closer, so we need to keep having these connections. "Obviously, winning is helpful. I believe we are progressing. In addition, I believed that we were developing in October and November, but our outcomes were not particularly pleasing. England plays France on July 5 in their first match in Group D. The Netherlands and Wales are also in England's group for the tournament in Switzerland.